Colorado Wine Country

Many of our guests enjoy the wine tours here in the Grand Valley. There are about two dozen wineries starting in the Fruita area, Grand Junction, Palisade and on down to Whitewater. Each offers something unique. This is a self-guided tour, most of the wineries are located in the town of Palisade. There are limo tours available by the hour, through "A Touch With Class Limo" http://www.colorado-limo.com/

Most of the wineries are open 10-5 Daily, call for specific hours, many have Winter hours/days.

During the Summer, if you come on a Thursday you can begin around noon, take your tour and end the day at the Grand Junction Farmer's Market on downtown Main Street.

The town of Palisade offers a Saturday morning Farmer's Market, you can stock your picnic basket in the A.M. and begin your tour there...The rest of the week, you'll want to stop at the Slice o' Life Bakery to get your bread and dessert and stop by one of the many Palisade fruit stands to pick up a few fresh fillings for your picnic basket...if you're here in August, you've gotta get a fresh peach pie!

Dave and I like dessert wines, so our favorites are swayed by our preference for sweet. Most of the fruit wines made in the Grand Valley are just that, wines made from fruit, not grape wines with fruit essences, they are flavorful and delicious.

Here our our picks:

My personal favorite is Carlson Vineyards http://www.carlsonvineyards.com/
461 35 Road · Palisade, CO 81526 · (888) 464-5554 · (970) 464-5554

This quaint tasting room is out in the middle of the orchards in Palisade, off the beaten path. There is a nice shaded grass area to sit and enjoy. The highlight of your trip to Carlson will be the wineglass dipped in chocolate and filled with cherry wine. My two other favorites from this winery are the Fat Cat Muscat (heavenly) and the Reisling. Carlson also has great peach, pear, apricot and traditional wines. They often have some great deals on cases.


The Meadery of the Rockies is a unique stop. http://www.meaderyoftherockies.com/
3701 G Road, Palisade, Colorado 81526 (970) 464-7899

Here you will find Honey wines ranging from dry to very sweet, as in their "Shere" and port style meads. My favorite is the Camelot and the Shere. They also have a delicious hard apple cider, sold in a six pack.


Next up is St Kathryns/Confre Cellars http://www.st-kathryn-cellars.com/
785 Elberta Avenue, Palisade, Colorado 81526 Phone: (970) 464-9288

Features a large selection of fruit wines; pomegranate, mango, concord grape (this one tastes just like Welch's grape juice, be careful!) blackberry, apple, pear, strawberry-rhubarb, blueberry, cranberry. They also stock Merlot and Chardonnay.


Canyon Wind Cellars http://www.canyonwindcellars.com/
3907 North River Road Palisade, CO 81526 Phone (970) 464-0888

This family owned vineyard makes all of their own wine from start to finish. When you drive up to the shop, you drive through the vineyards, it has a real old world feel about it. At the foot of Mt. Garfield, it's a beautiful spot to stop. This winery offers daily tours of the winemaking process, including bottling, sealing and storing in their underground cellar. Call for tour hours. They have a tasting room/giftshop and offer many food gifts including wine themed jams and sauces. You can even join their wine club and have their wines shipped to your home.


Guest favorites:

Garfield Estates http://www.garfieldestates.com/

3572 G Road, Palisade, Colorado 970.464.0941

Garfield Estates is the #1 favorite of our guests. Currently, Garfield Estates makes seven wines — Vin Rosé, Fumé Blanc, Viognier, S2 - a blend of Semillon and Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Vin de Glace.

Graystone Winery http://www.graystonewine.com/

3352 F RoadClifton, CO 81520 970-434-8610

Known for their Ports.

Colorado Cellars http://coloradocellars.com/

3553 E. RoadPalisade, Colorado 81526 Phone (970) 464-7921

Offers self serve wine tasting on tap! (So we've been told...)
You'll find a little bit of everything here, from fruit wines, meads to Merlots, Zins....


Plum Creek http://www.plumcreekwinery.com/
3708 G RoadPalisade, CO 81526Tel: 970 464-7586

Another popular one with our guests and conveniently located across the street from the Meadery! The Chardonnay and Palisade Rose are my favorites here.

Salud!

We think our guests are as nice as...

...the wonderful notes they leave  in the guest books. It's been a while since we've shared our love notes, they are what keep us going after a long day. We think our guests are pretty special and when they leave us reviews on sites like Tripadvisor and Facebook, we love it. And while we may not be listed on those sites as the number one inn in the Grand Valley (yet), when they take the time to write us a handwritten note in our guestbook, it means more than all of that! Here is a sampling of some entries we've had during the slow season. Please allow us to toot our own horn...

Thanks again for an amazing weekend. Coming to Willow Pond is like coming home. Each time is a new experience with old friends. Breakfast was awesome, the conversation and stories so much fun. We will see you in August for Peach Festival and in October for "Tour of the Moon". Please don't change a thing. - Lakewood, CO

Thank you so much for your hospitality and making the Grand Junction part of our vacation so relaxing and refreshing. All of the food was delicious and we really enjoyed all of David's stories over breakfast. The suggestion to visit the Farmer's Market was really excellent, too. We definitely plan to be back! J&C

Next time we'll stay longer-This short visit, however, was just what we needed. Thank you for providing such a nourishing experience. All you need is LOVE! (Anon.)

Thanks for the wonderful experience at this B&B. We really enjoyed the location of it and a weekend without kids. Next time we will stay for breakfast and hopefully longer as well. We love this area & hope to be back soon. Thanks again for everything. -Cheyenne, WY

We have had a very enjoyable and relaxing "weekend" here at Willow Pond. Thank you for your great hospitality! The breakfasts were great, especially the pancakes and waffles! We wish you the best! Thanks again! -Denver CO

Thank you- again!! We so enjoyed this "home away from home." So nice after traipsing across peach country- and wine country- and God's good beauty country- to have such a comfortable, beautiful, welcoming place to come back to. Hope to see you next year- for Winefest instead~ Denver, CO

We enjoyed spending the night here after mountain biking on Grand Mesa. we were appreciative of the comfortable room,quiet setting...Santa Barbara, CA

We really enjoy our 3 nights at Willow Pond. We "porked out" on your tasty breakfasts. Your inn is beautiful and comfortable. We will definitely return.- Loveland, CO

It's so great to stay with you again after so long! Thanks so much for all you do, and for keeping us in such beautiful and peaceful surroundings. -Crestone, CO

We were relieved at the 11th hour, when we called to inquire about the availability of the room we'd booked for 10/20, was also available on 10/19! Willow Pond is a quiet oasis tucked away in Grand Junction, and we enjoyed your hospitality and flexibility, David! -Fort Collins, CO

When I looked online to find a B&B for my sister and I to stay at here in Grand Junction, yours looked the most charming...and your place more than met our expectations. Thanks for providing such a wonderful atmosphere for us to call "home" while visiting relatives here this weekend.- L.P.

Thank you for a wonderful stay. Everything was just perfect. We loved the breakfast gift cards...so yummy. A great setting here...loved it all. -Clinton, UT

Thank you for a wonderful stay! We enjoyed a fantastic breakfast every morning and loved the Bella Donna room. We appreciate the suggestions for restaurants and things to do. Hopefully we'll be back. Thank you! Longmont, CO

Thank you for feeding us so well- breakfasts were fabulous! And we enjoyed the space and peace of the Willow Room. - Waco, TX

Our stay at Willow Pond & the Grand Junction scene has made us true believers in Colorado! Maybe we will find ourselves neighbors in the near future! Thank your for helping make our "honeymoon" unforgettable! P.S. My husband is convinced that I need to learn how to make breakfast "Willow Pond" style! So good! Thank you again! Elk Mound, WI

Thank you for the lovely accommodations. Your help with dietary restrictions is appreciated as is your friendly nature and the bright and comfortable room. -Scottsbluff, NE

Wonderful, Comfortable and quiet. We enjoyed our stay at the B&B. Superb Belgian waffles, had a great time. We enjoyed the Dream Cafe on Main and the visit to GJ. Thank you for the conversation and reminisces' of the good old days with "Dick Dale". - Louisville, CO

(Laurie says this one gets the prize-hee-hee:)

Wow! What a wonderful place! This was a real treat and very relaxing. You have a little piece of heaven and are so generous to share it with so many. Thank you for your hospitality. Needless to say, we will be back.
Sarah is a beautiful hostess, cook and artist! A real pleasure to meet her. Dave is hysterical! Very sweet and friendly, made us feel right at home. Laurie- what a beautiful lady. You are wonderful.Thank you all so very much. See you again soon. Come to Glenwood Springs and visit anytime. -K&C

What a wonderful weekend in Grand Junction riding the Tour of the Moon bicycle tour and having this awesome home to stay in. Sarah and Dave are the best! The food was fabulous. We will be back for more. - Lakewood, CO

Thanks to Laurie for the best omelets and pancakes ever, and Dave for the impromptu discussion on photography, which I appreciated very much and immediately put to use during our visit to Colorado National Monument later that day. And we were very impressed with Bryan who can carry a tune and a 50 pound sousaphone while marching in step at 5000 feet. A very memorable visit and thanks again for your warm and wonderful hospitality. - Greenfield Center, NY

What a lovely and relaxing home, thank you for sharing it with us! And thank you, Dave for all your great recommendations! Le Maison was fabulous! L&K

Thank you for the lovely stay and delicious breakfast! We enjoyed our stay very much! We will definitely be coming back. T&K

Charming place and great hospitality! Thank you for making our trip to the Western Slope special! - Castle Rock, CO

Please view the links above for our reviews and more guest insights into staying with us at Willow Pond.

Thanks to all of our guests for sharing their experiences!! Come back soon!!

Willow Pond Welcomes Artist Barbara Churchley

Willow Pond Bed & Breakfast is proud to welcome Colorado artist, Barbara Churchley as a displaying artist at the inn! Barbara is best known for her pastel and oils of Colorado scenery. We are very excited to show her work at the inn and we know our guests will enjoy viewing and purchasing her work during their visit. We have several original oil and pastel paintings as well as prints and cards available for purchase.

From Barbara's website:
"Barbara Churchley's paintings reflect her personal connection with the western landscape she lives in.  Her  oil paintings are interpretive and impressionistic. Her passion for painting and the outdoors has taken her to the summit of all 53 ranked 14,000' peaks in Colorado and a few other unranked ones for fun. She has explored the landscape "up close and personal" through multiple marathons, hikes, and backpack trips.  She is a Signature Member of International Plein Air Painters, Plein Air Artists of both Colorado and New Mexico, Contemporary Fine Artists International, and an Associate Member of Oil Painters of America, American Impressionist Society, and Women Artists of the West."

Please visit Barbara Churchley's website  or read about her current news on her blog http://www.barbarachurchleyfineart.blogspot.com/  and please consider making a purchase during your visit and support local artists!

Art at the Pond

Art at Willow Pond:
Willow Pond features local artist work at the inn. One of the terrific things about being an innkeeper is all the wonderful and creative people you get to meet.

Peg Oswald, pastels and ceramics

Vera Mulder, Batik
http://www.artyme.org/

Piera Kllanxjha, crystal glaze ceramics, printmaker and photographer
www.artistsregister.com/artists/CO199

http://www.newartcollectors.com/

Dave Lester, photography
http://www.willowpondphoto.com/

Betsy McLoughlin, watercolors

Dawn Sudmeier- Fused glass jewelry

Pat Feinberg- Ceramics

Caroline McDaniel- Mixed Media

Grand Junction Art Community:

The art community is so busy here, sometimes it's hard to schedule an art even because there's so much competition!

Grand Junction recently won a National Arts Council Award for it's support of the arts.

There is a walking tour downtown called "Art on the Corner" that features over one hundred sculptures by Colorado artists.

Grand Junction is also home to The Art Center http://www.gjartcenter.org/

1803 N. 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-243-7337

The Art Center features local artists, exhibits, permanent collections, gift shop, summer art camp, year round classes, art fairs and a "collection of nearly 300 historic and contemporary works representing a thorough visual documentary of the art and artists of Western Colorado. Historic Native American artifacts comprise a significant portion of the collection, including numerous exceptional Navajo weavings..."

Planet Earth and the 4 Directions Gallery

524 Colorado Avenue Grand Junction, CO, 81501 970.256.9630

This is a funky vintage clothing, antique store and Art Gallery. Local art, traveling exhibits and seasonal community events are hosted by this very cool gallery.

The Blue Pig Gallery in Palisade http://www.thebluepiggallery.com/

This is a working gallery/coop featuring over 30 local artists. A number of the Willow Pond Artists are featured at the Blue Pig.

There are also a number of galleries downtown on Main St. and many artists are feature at the Thursday Night Farmer's Market on Main St in Downtown Grand Junction:

Working Artists Gallery

520 Main St 970-256-9952

Local seasonal art shows include Palisade Peach Blossom Art Show in April, Art and Jazz Festival in May, Spring Open Studio Tours. See the events page of the Grand Junction Visitor's Center website for details: http://www.visitgrandjunction.com/ .

Support the arts and consider making a purchase during your visit!

August Is Peachy

We are busy canning up peach Jam and Apricot Peach Jam, making peach scones and cobbler and peach syrup for your waffles!





Don't miss Peach Fest from the 16-19th of August, in Palisade!
There is an ice cream social, tours of the orchards, culinary events, pancake breakfast, recipe contest, 5 miler, car show, parade, peach eating contest, live entertainment, "feast in the fields", Historic walking tour, bike tour and river floats and local restaurants will be featuring peach cuisine.

Book your "August is Peachy" get-away today!
2 night stay, including full gourmet breakfast, starting at $115 per night, double occupancy. Enjoy our peachy breakfasts during August, featuring Palisade peaches, peach scones, peach jam, peach cobbler and more!! Good from August 1 through August 31, 2012 or while the peaches last! Call innkeeper or book online on our website!
We still have rooms for Peach Fest Weekend...book online now!
Palisade Peach Fest: August 16-19, 2012 Visit: http://www.palisadepeachfest.com/ for more info.

Fall Specials!

We still have availability for Wine Fest Weekend!
September 15-18
Book online or call 970-243-4958.
$175 per night. See website for policies and more information.
3 night minimum, double occupancy only.
See the Winefest website for festival schedule and more information.

Mid-week Special:
Willow Suite only $125 per night, 2 night minimum, double occupancy only.
Sunday-Thursday, restrictions apply. Not valid holidays or special event dates.

Willow Pond Specials

For all specials, please note, discount will not appear on automated confirmation. We will send you a receipt via e-mail, reflecting your discount, after we have run your charges.



Innkeeper's Same Day Special:
Save 15% when you book a room the same day of your stay!
Call between 10AM and 6PM the day of your stay.
Coral Rose: $97.75 Hazel Tree: $123.25 Bella Donna: $140.25
No advance bookings, offer only good the same day of your stay. Not valid with any other offer, must book by phone directly through Willow Pond, double occupancy only, other restrictions may apply. Offer expires February 28, 2010.

Willow Pond's Innkeeper's Online Special
Book online and save $10 off of your stay!
Offer only good for reservations made directly through the Willow Pond website.
Must mention special when booking - Type "Online Special" under "preferences & needs".
Not valid with any other offer, other restrictions may apply, taxes not included.
Offer good through December 31st, 2010

Mesa State College Special
$10 off your stay for all Mesa State College families. Must mention special when booking.
If booking online, type "Mesa State College" under "preferences and needs" .
Offer only good for immediate family members of registered students or faculty members of Mesa State College. Not valid with any other offer, other restrictions may apply, taxes not included. Offer good through Dec 31st, 2010

Willow Pond/Academy of Yoga Class

Outdoor yoga in the serene garden setting of Willow Pond! Schedule a class during your stay, through the Academy of Yoga. Only $80 per class for your entire party!
Call (970) 255-8029 to schedule your yoga class.

Certified Teachers, All Props Provided, Set-up, Breakdown included.

Enjoy: Team Building, Stress Reduction, Increased Production, Sharp Mind Focus
& Clarity, Flexibility, Stamina, FUN!

Classes based on the Iyengar system, focusing on the needs of each individual student. Offering two decades of experience, teacher training, and a variety of individualized classes.

Visit the Academy of Yoga website for more information about their instructors and offerings.

Ask about our weekly rates and discounted extended stays.

We also offer and/or coordinate:

Elopement Packages

Spa/Massage Package

Theater Packages

Limo-Winery Tours

Golf Packages

Bicycle rentals

Guided Tours:
Local Wineries
Colorado National Monument
Arches National Park
Rafting
Horseback riding

Leah Lyon

Willow Pond is proud to present
our newest Artist Inn Residence,
Leah Lyon!

A perennial artist, I recently went to college to create my first professional career. I graduated with a B.A. in Public Relations from Mesa State College, CO. It’s creative side assists me in my pottery business.

What happened is while going through school I discovered a love for clay. (Those darn electives!) It started with hand building and transition into throwing on a wheel. I often use both techniques in my pieces. I have finally accepted that clay is now a passion.



Clay is addictive. Don’t let anyone tell you anything different. Whether you collect the finished vessels or indulge in the creation process you’ll get hooked. My husband tells me the reason I love clay is because of my love of rocks. Clay is simply very, very small rocks. He may be right. Scientifically it’s true!

My love of creating ceramic vessels uses my natural abilities and learned skills. It is the happy
accidents that amaze me. Like my “Peach Pitchers”



The story goes - I had thrown my first tall (for me) vase. When I went to flip it over to dry more, one side collapsed. I was in shock. I couldn’t waste the vessel so...I altered it more and “voila!” My own style of pitcher.
I create functional pieces that are a joy to look at. I seek to create vessels with texture and functional aesthetic forms. So that when they’re not in use you would think, “Why would you want to put this away in a cupboard?!


Leah's beautiful tea pots are now available at Willow Pond!

July News from the Pond

Here's the News from the Pond!

Farmer's Market! Cherry preserves!
New artist!
Summer fun for $40 a day!!

Lodging Specials! Noteworthy Duo Houseconcert!

FOOD!

The fruit is on and we're jammin'! Our apricots and wild plums are ripe, don't miss our Belgian waffles with locally grown and homemade cherry topping!

ART!

Willow Pond is delighted to host a new Artist Inn Residence!
Come see the Tea Pot artistry of Leah Lyon!

SPECIALS!!

We know money is tight right now,
so we've come up with
"$40 a day the Willow Pond Way"
Start by checking our SPECIAL's PAGE
for savings on lodging,
then read our blog for our suggestions on enjoying the finest food and activities
the Grand Valley has to offer for
around $40 a day!

Here are some of the fabulous
community events coming up in July:

High Desert Opera presents: Gilbert & Sullivan's "The Sorcerer"!
Independence day! Mesa County Fair! Dinosaur Days! Farmer's Market!

Visit our Calendar for more info..
___________________________________

View our specials page for details:

We've decided to make our same day special
a year round deal,
so give us a call if you find yourself in town or
need to get away without leaving town!

Innkeeper Same Day Special:

Save 15% when you book a room
the same day of your stay!

Call between 10am and 6pm the day of your stay.
No advance bookings,
offer only good the same day of your stay.
Not valid with any other offer,
must book by phone directly through Willow Pond,
double occupancy only, other restrictions may apply.
Offer expires Dec. 31st, 2009.

Online Special
$10 off all 2 -night online bookings!

MSC Special:

$10 off your stay for all Mesa State Families.

Are you a return guest?
Call us for our return guest special!

Click here: Check Availability

***

Music Notes:

Mark your Calendars!

Willow Pond House Concert Series

See the music page on our website for details!

Noteworthy Duo

Michael Nigro, Classical Guitar
&
Lisa Schroeder, Flute

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

7pm

______________

Ricko Donovan

Hammered Dulcimer Virtuoso

Thursday,August 20, 2009

6PM

____________

Jason Wilber

Lead guitarist for John Prine and
Iris Dement!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

7pm

Don't miss these incredible artists!

____________________

Weddings at Willow Pond

We are currently booking for the 2010 wedding season...
We still have some dates left for last minute 2009 summer
and fall weddings...
Call the inn for a tour and consultation...

That's the news for now!

***

July 2009 Events

Some highlights of area activities courtesy the Grand Junction VCB:


Drum Circle

July 02, 2009 6-8 pm

Take instruments.

White Hall
600 White Ave., CO
970-270-1733
www.whitehallvillage.com

Independence Day Parade

July 04, 2009 6 pm

Downtown Grand Junction: The parade will travel down Main Street--beginning at 9th and ending at 1st Street. ----The theme of the 2009 parade is: Lincoln Bicentennial/1809-2009/Live the Legacy

www.downtowngj.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=page.independanceday

July 4th Activities at Lincoln Park

July 04, 2009 7:15 pm gates open, 8 pm Entertainment begins, 9:45 pm Fireworkd
$4 in advance, City Markets, Mesa Mall, Parks & Rec Office--Ages 2 and under free

This years entertainment lineup includes... Acid Rain Greener Grass Destinee & the Sheepdogs Peggy Malone --------- Transportation Don't fight traffic and parking! Take a convenient GVT Shuttle from any of the following locations starting at 6:30 p.m. the day of the event and running every 1/2 hour. Mesa Mall - GVT stop, south parking lot ---- Veterans Memorial Park (Fairgrounds) Main parking lot ---- Central High School - Parking lot

Suplizio Baseball Field
12th & North Ave., CO
970-254-3866
www.gjcity.org/CityDeptWebPages/ParksRecreation/Fireworks/Fireworks.html

Gilbert & Sullivan's "The Sorcerer"

July 18, 2009 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
$19, $29 & $39

Lively & light hearted operetta about the virtues of love.

Robinson Theater. MSC
1100 North Street, CO
(970) 523-9605
www.highdesertopera.org

Best Six Days of Summer, THE 122nd Mesa County Fair

July 21, 2009 to July 26, 2009
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (closes at 11:00 PM Fri & Sat; and 4:00 PM Sun.)
Tuesday 7/21 6 pm Centennial Band

There will once again be live Family Entertainment including the internationally renowned Up with People, Demolition Derby, Bull Riding, Carnival Rides, Fireworks and much more. This year we are showcasing the Living Arts Open Classes that gives all Mesa County residents the opportunity to participate in the Fair by exhibiting their hobbies and passions. Everything from Fine Arts and Textiles to Baked/Pantry Stores, Horticulture and Livestock –all are welcome. For more information on the Fair and Open Class Exhibits go to the Mesa County Fair website at www.mesacountyfair.com

Mesa County Fairgrounds
2785 Highway 50, Grand Junction, CO
970-256-1528
www.mesacountyfair.com

22nd Annual Dinosaur Days

July 24, 2009 to July 25, 2009
Friday: Reception 6:30pm–9:30pm,-- $10 advance, $12 door,
Advance tickets will be available on July 11th.

Free Parking Lot Concert & Dance with Ralph Dinosaur; Saturday: Dinosaur Journey’s prehistoric pricing of $1/person from 9am – 5pm, and the Pteranodon Ptrot at 7:30am for $20 before 7/17 and $25 after:

Dinosaur Journey Museum
550 Jurassic Ct, Fruita, CO, CO
242-0971 ex 206.

Concert by Noteworthy Duo

July 29, 2009 7 pm
$15 donation requested

Michael Nigro, Classical Guitar & Lisa Schroeder, Flute

Willow Pond B & B
662 26 Rd, CO
Please call 970-243-4958 to reserve your seat..
www.noteworthyduo.com

Noteworthy Duo

Michael Nigro, Classical Guitar & Lisa Schroeder, Flute

Wednesday, July 29th

7pm

$15 donation requested

Call 970-243-4958 to reserve your seat, 12+

"If listening to great flute music, performed by a superb musician, is what you are looking for, look no further than Lisa Schroeder. She delivers on all levels." (Steven Allen Fox, Composer/Artistic Director/Conductor of the Golden State Pops Orchestra)

"Nigro is an excellent guitarist, drawing a multitude of tone colors from his instrument and displaying great technical dexterity. He has a wide dynamic range, a very pretty sound, and an ability to vary his articulation for expressive purposes. Guitarists have to be able to play melody and accompaniment at the same time, while differentiating the two, and also provide their own percussive effects. All of these tasks Nigro performed with ease and a sense of style."
(Jim Ruggirello, Long Beach Gazzette)

Lisa Schroeder and Michael Nigro join their musical talents, creating an experience of pure elegance and classical artistry. Their vision is to reach a non-classical audience, inspire the classical listener, and to touch just one life with a "noteworthy" performance. Their interest in South American Music can be heard throughout their extensive flute and guitar repertoire. Lisa and Michael are both on faculty at Vanguard University of Southern California.

During the course of the concert, in an informal manner, Michael and Lisa often include commentary, information, and anecdotes about the composers and pieces they are performing. Their striking ability to communicate with their audience makes "Noteworthy" performances seem more like an intimate gathering of friends than a recital for strangers.

Flutist, Lisa Schroeder is a Los Angeles based performer, teacher, and clinician. As a Solo Artist with Altus Flutes, and as flutist with Noteworthy Duo, Lisa has established herself as a first-rate artist and teacher, performing in Concerts and giving Master Classes across the United States and Europe. In California, she is the acting principal flutist of the Golden State Pops Orchestra. In August 2008, Lisa was selected to perform bass flute with the National Flute Association’s Professional Flute Choir at the Kansas City Convention. Her expressive playing transports the audience into the music and has received praise from the flute community. Gary Schocker, a renowned flutist/composer/pianist, states “Lisa Schroeder is a dynamic performer who brings her own style to the flute.”

As a high school junior, she attended the esteemed Interlochen Center for the Arts and knew from that moment on that she was destined to be a flute performer. Lisa began her collegiate music studies at Eastern Michigan University and later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee where she received her Bachelor of Music degree in flute performance from Middle Tennessee State University.

While in Nashville, Lisa gained experience in performing, teaching, and recording session work with area singer/songwriters. She held the piccolo position in the Tennessee Philharmonic and the flute position with the Music City Winds.

In 2002, Lisa performed in the John Barcellona Master Class in Kentucky, after which the internationally acclaimed flute performer/teacher invited her to study with him in Southern California. She in turn received her Master of Music degree in flute performance from California State University Long Beach. Her interest in new music inspired a thesis entitled, “Twentieth-Century Techniques in Flute Literature: Learning and Teaching Multiphonics”.

Lisa Schroeder has performed in Master Classes with Gary Schocker, Peter Lloyd, Michel Debost, Debora Harris, Angeleita Floyd, John Barcellona, Jim Walker and Sir James Galway. Her primary teachers have included Dr. John Barcellona, Dr. Yvonne Chavez-Hansbrough, Dr. Deanna Hahn-Little, Dr. Julie Stone, and Ann Richards of the Nashville Symphony.

Mrs. Schroeder currently teaches flute at Vanguard University of Southern California, Cerritos College, Golden West College, and directs the Rolling Hills Flute Choir. Her passion for teaching has brought about her annual “Flute Loops” camp held in Palos Verdes, CA.

Michael Anthony Nigro showed an interest in the guitar at an early age and began playing by the age of 12. After several years of lessons with local teachers and self-study, he attended the prestigious Indiana University School of Music where he graduated with his Bachelor of Music Degree in 2000 under the direction of Ernesto Bitetti.

After moving back to his native Southern California, he attended California State University, Fullerton and earned a Master of Music degree under the tutelage of David Grimes.

Michael Nigro’s debut recording, “Homage to Piazzolla; Argentine Dances, Songs, and Rhythms,” is released on the label, Music & Arts. The American Record Guide stated, “Nigro has a big sound, a smooth tone, and sure-footed interpretive instincts.” His latest CD, “Guitar Sudamericana,” is released on the Austrian label, Balcon Records and features guitar works by Heitor Villa-Lobos, Antonio Lauro, Adolfo Luna, Jose Luis Merlin, and many others.

As a performer and teacher, Michael has played concerts and Master Classes at many esteemed colleges which include Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, University of Wisconsin, Glendale Community College in Glendale, Arizona, Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York, Marlyhurst College in Portland, Oregon, William Jessup University in Rocklin, California and many others.

Michael is an active member of the guitar community; he is co-founder of the Long Beach Classical Guitar Society, independent reviewer of new music publications for Soundboard Magazine, and sought after teacher and performer.

In January 2006, Michael joined the faculty at Vanguard University of Southern California where he teaches private guitar, class guitar, and guitar ensemble.

www.noteworthyduo.com

Pete Kartsounes

Pete Kartsounes, Eclectic/Singer/Songwriter

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

Time: 6:30 pm

$15+ donation requested

Pete returns to Grand Junction to support children's charity:

Hike for Cancer's therewithcare.org

Proceeds to go to therewithcare.

Bring a picnic and come listen to some bluegrass/folk, original tunes by Pete and

support kids and families facing medical crisis!

www.petekmusic.com_

Pete Kartsounes is no stranger to the life of a full time musician.
He has spent the past 13 years writing, recording and touring nationally and internationally.
Now living in Boulder, Colorado, Pete has established himself as a dominant figure in todays music scene.

Apart from playing festivals and venues nationwide as a member of the Wayword Sons "featuring Benny Galloway"
(writer behind the songs of Yonder Mountain String Band), Pete also plays as a solo act, and with his own band "Pete Kartsounes Band" (P.K.B).
The band consists of an amazing group of musicians, who's skill set has the ability to fit the genre of any event.
Pete's mixture of musical genres is extensive, making his music unique.
He writes ballads, blues, jazzy, bluegrass, standard-like and sometimes music that isn't so easy to describe
other than to say that they are "story-telling" songs. He is also known for his strong, soulful voice, and encompassing lyrics.
Referred to as a "must see" and "truely one of a kind" from critics, he is becoming one of the most prolific songwriters of today.

Pete's newest release "Out of Nowhere" is his 3rd and most essential albumn to date.
Getting rave reviews throughout the country, it is a tasteful blend of Bluegrass, Jazz, folk, and blues,
entwined with acoustic overtones and superb musicianship.
The disc includes many well known artists, some of which are Grammy Award Winner Sally Van Meter, Jeff Austin (Yonder Mtn String Band),
Drew Emmitt (Leftover Salmon), and Travis Book (The Infamous Stringdusters).
It was also recorded in DSD (Direct Stream Digital) format by Gus Skinas. It is truely original and visual music.

For more information and to hear Pete you can go to http://petekmusic.com

May at Willow Pond...

May at Willow Pond...

The view from the backyard...The roses are happy!


Wild Sweet Peas are starting to bloom...


A happy Bumble Bee and a Yellow Columbine...


Pink Columbines...



Climbing roses next to the garage...

Rabbit Valley- Trail through Time

30 miles from Grand Junction, near the Colorado/Utah border, is Rabbit Valley and the Trail Through Time. Here you can view some interesting wildlife, such as the lizard pictured above, as well as interesting vegetation, rock formations and of course, what the area is famous for....dinosaurs! Well, dinosaur fossils anyway...





Blue belly lizard...

Diplodocus vertebrae

This area also has a working quarry, where folks from the Museum of Western Colorado excavate findings to be displayed at the Dinosaur Museum, in Fruita. Some days you might find the paleontologists out there digging...

Spring and Fall are the best times to go, mild weather and flowers in the springtime. Summer is hot, triple digits, so bring plenty of water!

There is a high trail and a lower trail with wheelchair access. The entire loop is 1.5 miles, and takes an hour to an hour and a half to complete. The high trail was easy enough for us hiking novices to complete...

For more information on the Museum, visit: http://www.museumofwesternco.com/

For more info on Rabbit Valley:
http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/mcnca/recreation/camping/rabbitvalley.html

June News from the Pond

Here's the News from the Pond!

Farmer's Market!
Summer fun for $40 a day!!
Yoga at WP!
Lodging Specials! Cooking Classes! Houseconcerts!

We know money is tight right now,
so we've come up with
"$40 a day the Willow Pond Way"
Start by checking our SPECIAL's PAGE
for savings on lodging,
then read our blog for our suggestions on enjoying the finest food and activities
the Grand Valley has to offer for
around $40 a day!

Here are some of the fabulous
community events coming up in June:

Farmer's Markets open! Palisade Bluegrass Festival!
Auto Fest! Bicycle Tour Colorado! Country Jam USA!!!

Visit our Calendar for more info..
___________________________________

*New*

Yoga at the Pond!
Willow Pond has teamed up with
The Academy of Yoga
to present Yoga-to-go classes at the inn.
If you'd like to schedule a private class for you and your party during your visit to Willow Pond, call the Academy.
Only $80 per class for your whole party!
Perfect for girlfriend getaways and
those who don't want to miss their class!
Students must be registered guests of the inn to participate.
Visit www.academyofyoga.com
for more information.
________________________

SPECIALS!!

View our specials page for details:

We've decided to make our same day special
a year round deal,
so give us a call if you find yourself in town or
need to get away without leaving town!

Innkeeper Same Day Special:

Save 15% when you book a room
the same day of your stay!

Call between 10am and 6pm the day of your stay.
No advance bookings,
offer only good the same day of your stay.
Not valid with any other offer,
must book by phone directly through Willow Pond,
double occupancy only, other restrictions may apply.
Offer expires Dec. 31st, 2009.

Online Special
$10 off all 2 -night online bookings!

MSC Special:

$10 off your stay for all Mesa State Families.

Are you a return guest?
Call us for our return guest special!

Click here: Check Availability

***

_________________

DMT Cooking Classes:

View registration information

Presented by Chef Diana Tarasiewicz of DMT Catering...

June cooking classes:

JUNE -

Tuesday June 2 -
SUMMER TAPAS AND PAELLA PARTY - DEMO
Marry the incredible flavors of Spain and spring in this class with seasonally inspired recipes for fantastic small bites and flavorful paella. You'll master these easy recipes, learn about special ingredients and classic techniques plus handy tips for making these culinary sensations in a snap.

MENU: Sweet and Spicy Marcona Almonds - Potato and Kale Tortilla - Garlic Shrimp with Amontillado Sherry - Quick Chicken, Shrimp and Chorizo Paella

Thursday June 4 -

VEGETARIAN EXPRESS: QUICK GREAT MEALS FOR SUMMER - DEMO

Are you fantasizing about quick, delicious vegetarian meals? Come excite your palate with Diana's inspirational line-up, and the key word here is fast! You'll learn timesaving tips, meet quick-cooking ingredients, and have a great meal.

MENU: Quinoa Pilaf with Red Peppers, oranges, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds & Optional Feta; Sautéed green lentils with Marinated sun dried Tomatoes & Kale; Savory Tofu & Garlicky Greens in Tahini-Ume Sauce over brown rice; Curried Coconut Red Lentil Soup with Chard & Tomatoes

Thursday June 25 -

A NIGHT IN PROVENCE -DEMO

Famous for it's sun, food, wine and casual join de vivre, Provence is the perfect place for romance - Come to Willowpond B&B to learn how to make a delicious dinner menu of classic recipes from the southeastern region of France along with special techniques for easy cooking.

MENU: Olive Tapenade and Herb Aioli with Spring Vegetables - Seafood Soup with Rouille - French Roasted Chicken with Herbes de Provence - Warm Cherry Clafoutis with fresh whipped cream.

Tuesday June 30 -

QUICK AND DELICIOUS MEALS FROM THE EARLY FARMER'S MARKET - DEMO

Shopping at farmers markets allows you get a hold of the freshest produce, eat with the season and support your local community. Learn to create fresh, flavor-packed main dishes, soups, apps and desserts. Diana will teach you tricks for selecting produce, handy preparation tips and more. With some kitchen creativity, a bit of expert instruction and a trip to the market, the possibilities are practically endless.
MENU: Curried Carrot Bisque with Mini Crab Cakes - Roasted Beet, Chevre and Truffle Risotto - Pan seared New York Steak with Arugula or spinach Salad - Strawberry Napoleons with Chantilly Cream



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Music Notes:

Mark your Calendars!

Willow Pond House Concert Series

See the music page on our website for details!

Pete Kartsounes

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

6:30 pm

Proceeds benefit Hike for Cancer.

__________

Noteworthy Duo

Michael Nigro, Classical Guitar
&
Lisa Schroeder, Flute

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

7pm

______________

Ricko Donovan

Hammered Dulcimer Virtuoso

Thursday,August 20, 2009

6PM

____________

Jason Wilber

Lead guitarist for John Prine and
Iris Dement!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

7pm

Don't miss these incredible artists!

____________________

Weddings at Willow Pond

We are currently booking for the 2010 wedding season...
We still have some dates left for last minute 2009 summer
and fall weddings...
Call the inn for a tour and consultation...

That's the news for now!